Farmers living in Maine can apply for licensing through the state’s hemp regulatory program in order to join the lucrative hemp industry. Whether you’re interested in adding hemp to your existing crops or would to completely transition altogether, you may be wondering exactly how to get started. While licensing is an important first step, farmers will need to also find the best CBD seed for their hemp farms. Here are six leading tips for purchasing high-quality CBD hemp seed.
How to Buy High-Quality CBD Seed In Maine
- Determine what your end product is: Hemp is known for its high versatility. With up to 25,000 different applications, farmers will need to decide beforehand what end product they’d like to produce. This will determine the type of hemp seeds you’ll need to purchase as well as strain and what potential buyers you should be looking for. If you’re interested in cultivating industrial hemp for food, fiber, textiles, building products, etc. you can plant generic hemp seed on your farm. However, if you’re interested in producing CBD, you’ll need to find high-quality CBD seed to maximize your investment and profit returns.
- Find the right genetics: Now that you’ve determined your end product is, you need to search for seed companies that have high-quality genetics and the right strains for your intended purpose. Working with CBD seed experts that have spent significant time in research and development in order to breed their strains is ideal. Another thing to consider is that good genetics means more resilient plants. The more resilient your hemp plants are, the better they will withstand Maine’s variety of weather conditions. Look for genetics bred by companies in a similar climate as your own.
- Invest in feminized CBD seed: This step is crucial for farmers that are set cultivating hemp for CBD production. Hemp plants can be male or female but CBD is predominately sourced from the flowers of female plants. If there are any male plants in your field, they pose the threat of pollinating your entire fields and significantly impacting the CBD content produced. Even having just a few males on your farm can cut into your profits. That’s why feminized CBD seed is crucial for you to invest in– while no company can guarantee you a 100% feminization rate, you should be able to find companies that come really close. Even a one or two percent difference in feminization guarantee can make a considerable difference for your profit returns.
- Research prospective hemp seed companies: Reputation, track record, and traceability are key when it comes to researching any hemp seed company. Since hemp cultivation was recently federally legalized, many of the existing seed companies are very new to the industry. It takes time to develop high-quality, high-producing CBD seeds. That’s why it’s best to work with companies that have a longstanding history and have spent a lot of time and money to create their genetics.
- Only work with compliant CBD seed companies: Every hemp farmer faces the additional obstacle of legal compliance. Unlike other cash crops, hemp regulations are very strict and are regulated by both the USDA as well as the state regulatory program. Making sure your crops stay compliant all starts with the seed. Finding the right CBD seed with low THC and high CBD ratios is crucial in order to stay compliant. Always ask for COAs that show THC and CBD content in their seeds.
- Work with industry professionals that offer great customer service: Some CBD seed companies are run by industry-leading hemp farmers that can share the experience and expertise that you’re looking for. If you find one that also values great customer service, you’ll be able to obtain the support needed for running a successful hemp farm. The best companies will be happy to discuss everything from farming equipment to strain requirements with you. They’ll also be able to provide better guidance on what strains you should invest in based on your production goals, climate, etc.
Work With Maine’s Preferred CBD Seed Company
CBD Seed Co. is honored to be the preferred CBD seed company serving the state of Maine. Our team has spent over five years in research and development breeding our high-producing, proprietary genetics. We’re always available to speak to you regarding your custom-tailored farm needs and provide the support you’re looking for. For more information regarding how to purchase the right hemp seed for your farm, please contact us!